You're right, replacing the Zinsco panel is the best and safest course of action. Their reputation is well-deserved.However, some clients are stubborn. Here's the information you'll need regarding breaker testing, understanding that it might be more trouble and expense than just replacing the panel

Finding Breaker Testing Services
Electrical Testing Companies (NETA Members)

This is the most reliable option. Look for companies that are members of the InterNational Electrical Testing Association (NETA). NETA-accredited companies have the equipment and certified technicians to perform comprehensive breaker testing to ANSI standards. Search the NETA website for a local company: [https://www.netaworld.org/](https://www.netaworld.org/)

Large Electrical Distributors

Some large distributors that service industrial or commercial accounts may offer breaker testing services, often through partnerships with testing companies.

Specialized Electrical Repair Shops

Some shops specialize in repairing and reconditioning electrical equipment, and may offer breaker testing. Do thorough research to check their qualifications.

Utility Companies

In some areas, the local power utility might offer testing services, though this is rare for residential-sized breakers.

What to Look For in a Testing Service Accreditation/Certifications

NETA accreditation is ideal. Look for certifications related to electrical testing and safety.

Testing Standards

They should test to ANSI standards (e.g., ANSI C37.04, ANSI C37.13).

Testing Methods

The testing should include:

Insulation Resistance Testing (Megger Test)

Checks for breakdown of insulation.

Contact Resistance Testing (Micro-ohmmeter)

Measures the resistance of the breaker contacts.

Timing Tests

Ensures the breaker trips within the specified time under fault conditions.

Trip Current Testing

Verifies the breaker trips at the correct overload current. This is critical.

Visual Inspection

Looking for physical damage, corrosion, and signs of overheating.

Reporting

The testing service should provide a detailed report with the test results, including pass/fail criteria and any recommendations.

Calibration

Ensure that the testing equipment used by the company is properly calibrated.

Important Considerations (Beyond the Testing Itself) Cost

Professional breaker testing can be expensive, especially when you factor in the labor to remove and reinstall the breakers. It's often cheaper to replace the panel.

Liability

If you are involved in any way with testing and re-installing Zinsco breakers and something goes wrong, you could be held liable. Consider your own risk and insurance.

Limited Scope

Testing only evaluates the breaker's performance at the time of the test. It doesn't guarantee future performance. Zinsco breakers are known to fail unpredictably, even after passing a test.

Availability of Replacement Breakers

Sourcing new, reliable Zinsco replacements is difficult. Many "new" breakers are old stock or manufactured by companies with questionable quality control.

Panel Condition

The panel itself might be damaged or deteriorated, even if the breakers test okay. Testing the breakers doesn't address problems within the panel.

Code Compliance

Replacing the panel ensures compliance with current electrical codes, which can be a safety benefit and a requirement for insurance.

How to Respond to Your Client Reiterate the Risks

Emphasize the known safety issues with Zinsco panels and breakers. Show him online articles, lawsuits, and other information about Zinsco failures.

Explain the Limitations of Testing

Stress that testing is not a guarantee of long-term reliability.

Provide a Cost Comparison

Get quotes for both testing the existing breakers and replacing the panel. Often, the cost difference isn't significant enough to justify the risk of keeping the Zinsco panel.

Document Everything

If the client insists on testing, document in writing that you advised against it, explained the risks, and that you are performing the testing only at their explicit direction. Have them sign the document.*

Consider Walking Away

If you are not comfortable with the liability, consider declining the job. It's better to lose a client than to risk someone's safety (or your reputation).

In summary, while breaker testing services exist, replacing the Zinsco panel is almost always the safer and more cost-effective solution in the long run. Properly communicate the risks to your client and protect yourself with thorough documentation. Flag for review